The Sunshine Coast is famous for its beautiful beaches, relaxed lifestyle and great dining. However, there is so much more to do that you may not have heard about, which is why we’ve made this 2021 guide to the Sunshine Coast.
From the Glass House Mountains to the annual Noosa Eat & Drink Festival, the Sunshine Coast should be on your 2021 travel list (if you can make it there). With everything from natural fairy pools to boutique stores, there is something for everyone on the Sunny Coast.
Photo by Timothée Duran on Unsplash.
13 Things to Do on the Sunshine Coast
1. Swim in the Fairy Pools.
Fairy pools are naturally formed rock pools carved out over time by the impact of the wind and sea. The Sunshine Coast’s natural seawater pools are a popular spot located in Noosa Heads. Make sure to bring your camera when heading to the fairy pools to capture some shots of these beautiful and natural pools.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot a dolphin while relaxing in the fairy pools.
2. Go for a dive at Sunreef Mooloolaba.
You can go diving at Sunreef Mooloolaba, which offers plenty of experiences for beginners and experts. From snorkelling at local reefs to swimming with whales, there’s an option for everyone. You can also go diving once or get your PADI diving license after completing the course.
3. Stroll through the Eumundi Markets.
The Eumundi Markets are famous for their wide selection of produce, arts and crafts. From locally made products to fresh food, there is so much to look at and enjoy.
You can wander the Eumundi Markets every Wednesday and Saturday of the year, so be sure to spend one of these mornings looking at all the treasures Eumundi Markets has to offer.
4. The Ginger Factory.
The Ginger Factory in Yandina is fun for everyone, especially gingers… just kidding! It’s fun for everyone. There is so much to do at the factory, from interesting tours where you can learn about The Ginger Factory and how ginger products are made, to fun rides and activities. Even better, The Ginger Factory has free entry!
5. Go shopping on Hastings Street.
Hastings Street in Noosa offers great shopping, from local boutiques to designer shops. If you find yourself here for more than an hour, we recommend stopping to enjoy a coffee, juice or *alcoholic drink* at one of the cozy cafés or bars on Hastings Street.
6. Hike through the beautiful Glass House Mountains.
The Glass House Mountains have 13 hills with 11 peaks and offer great hikes with beautiful views. The mountains are 27 million years old and are famous for their spiritual significance to Aboriginal culture. From beginner to advanced trails, there are a variety of walks for everyone.
The Glass House Mountains peaks:
- Mount Beerburrum, 278 metres
- Mount Beerwah, 556 m
- Mount Coochin or The Coochin Hills, 235 m and 230 m
- Mount Coonowrin or Crookneck or Fakebig, 377 m
- Mount Elimbah or The Saddleback, 109 m
- Mount Ngungun, 253 m
- Mount Tibberoowuccum, 220 m
- Mount Tibrogargan and Cooee, 364 m and 177 m
- Mount Tunbubudla or the Twins, 338 m and 294 m
- Wild Horse Mountain, 123 m
- Mount Miketeebumulgrai: 199 m
- Mount Ninderry 155 m
- Mount Coolum 208 m
Popular Hiking trails:
*Please note: some walks are currently closed due to COVID-19. Always check that the walk is open beforehand and do not continue if the trail looks too busy when you arrive.
7. Enjoy a day at the beach.
It’s no surprise the Sunshine Coast has amazing beaches. Head to Mooloolaba Spit Beach for a beautiful sunrise beach walk, where you can enjoy the soft sand and the sun rise over the ocean.
If you’re not an early riser, there are still plenty of beaches for you! There are so many beautiful beaches to relax and swim at, from Bulcock Beach to Coolum Beach (which is great for surfers too).
8. Admire the 360° view from Mount Coolum.
For the early birds, there’s the spectacular Mount Coolum walk. This 2-hour hike takes you to the summit, which rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast’s beaches and hinterland. Start the trek in the early morning to reach the summit at sunrise, when you can gaze at the sun lighting up the scenery around you.
*There is parking at the Mount Coolum Car Park, however there are no bathrooms. Make sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection on this hike.
9. Hop on a sunset cruise.
Hop on a Sunshine Coast sunset cruise for a spectacular way to end the day. Admire the Sunny Coast from a different point of view, while enjoying a drink in-hand. Enjoy breathtaking views of mangroves, the coastline and the sunset. Pick from a selection of cruises, like canal and ocean cruises, which offer further lunch, sunset which offer many options for cruise activities and meals.
10. Feast at the annual Noosa Eat & Drink Festival.
If you also enjoy food and beverages, like every human being should, then you’ll also love the Noosa Eat & Drink Festival! Top chefs come to Noosa to serve up some of their finest dishes under the stars, joined by a collection of restaurants, breweries, distilleries and more.
This festival will be held on the 4th – 6th of December 2019 and 13 – 16 May, 2021. Refer to this link for the schedule and updated information.
11. Enjoy a drink at a Noosa bar.
While the Sunshine Coast is famous for its beaches, it doesn’t hold back on having the best bars either. From hidden bars to rooftop bars, there are so many great options for an afternoon drink.
Looking for somewhere to stay on the Sunshine Coast? Find your next stay on localsearch.com.au.
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